ABU DHABI / RankWire.AI / – UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan welcomed Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday. The discussions primarily centered on the relationship between the United Arab Emirates and Iraq, with a specific focus on the Kurdistan Region. Leaders explored avenues to enhance collaboration and promote development and prosperity for their populations. Attending the meeting was Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai.
During the meeting, Sheikh Mohamed and Barzani examined the longstanding ties between the UAE, Iraq, and the Kurdistan Region. Official reports indicate that their conversations included strategies for expanding cooperation across various sectors. Both parties also deliberated on mutual concerns and regional issues. This dialogue occurred amidst ongoing regional tensions, with Middle Eastern governments emphasizing security and stability.
The leaders highlighted the significance of fostering security, stability, and enduring peace throughout the Middle East. They agreed that such efforts should benefit the region’s populations. The Kurdistan Regional Government stated that both sides condemned recent attacks on the UAE. The official account noted that the leaders reaffirmed the necessity of maintaining peace and security while addressing regional developments.
UAE and Kurdistan Region explore increased cooperation
Abu Dhabi hosted a gathering that included several senior UAE officials alongside Sheikh Mohamed, Barzani, and Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid. Among the attendees was Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan also participated. Other prominent members of the UAE leadership and government took part, reflecting the high-level importance of the discussions.
This meeting marked another instance of direct engagement between Sheikh Mohamed and the Kurdistan Region prime minister in 2026. On February 3, the UAE president previously hosted Barzani in Abu Dhabi during an official working visit. Barzani was in the UAE to attend the World Governments Summit in Dubai. The prior meeting also covered topics related to UAE-Iraq relations, collaboration with the Kurdistan Region, and regional and international concerns of mutual interest.
Officials reaffirm commitment to regional stability
In the February discussions, both leaders focused on potential cooperation to foster development and prosperity within the UAE, Iraq, and the Kurdistan Region. They reviewed issues on the agenda of the World Governments Summit and exchanged perspectives on regional and international affairs. The September meeting maintained ongoing dialogue between the UAE leadership and the Kurdistan Regional Government, emphasizing bilateral cooperation and regional stability.
The recent gathering reinforced the established diplomatic links between the UAE and Iraq, notably including engagement with the Kurdistan Region. Discussions concentrated on practical cooperation and regional security concerns, with no new agreements announced. Their public remarks underscored a desire for stronger relations, cross-sector collaboration, and ongoing support for peace in the region. The negotiations concluded with participation from senior representatives on both sides during the Abu Dhabi meeting.